NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Mapping blood vessels in the brain's entorhinal cortex to understand Alzheimer's disease

Official title: Identifying microscopic vasculature within entorhinal cortex in healthy aging and its proximity to pathology profiles in Alzheimer's disease

Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10657895 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how tiny blood vessels in a part of the brain called the entorhinal cortex might be linked to Alzheimer's disease, using special imaging and tissue tests to see how blood flow affects brain health and memory loss.

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Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMassachusetts General Hospital
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project startApril 15, 2023
Project endMarch 31, 2026
Funding year2023
Award (this year)$2,121,694
NIH project number1RF1AG082223-01
Project IDNIH-10657895 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those experiencing cognitive decline related to aging.

Less likely to help

Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between microscopic blood vessels in the entorhinal cortex and the pathology of Alzheimer's disease. By using advanced imaging techniques and histological analysis, the study aims to identify specific vascular territories that may contribute to neuronal death associated with dementia. The researchers will utilize high-resolution MRI and validate their findings with tissue staining to better understand how cerebrovascular health impacts Alzheimer's progression. This approach seeks to connect neuroimaging data with actual brain tissue characteristics, providing insights into the disease's mechanisms.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding of Alzheimer's disease and potentially new strategies for early diagnosis and treatment.

How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of mapping microvascular patterns in the entorhinal cortex is novel, similar studies have shown success in linking vascular health to neurodegenerative diseases.

Where this research is happening

  • Massachusetts General Hospital
    Boston, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Augustinack, Jean — Massachusetts General Hospital
  • Study coordinator: Augustinack, Jean

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.